The Acquisitive Society · Question
How does The Acquisitive Society develop the theme of Industrial Democracy and Freedom?
Answer
The Acquisitive Society by R. H. Tawney develops Industrial Democracy and Freedom across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
Tawney argues that political freedom is impossible without industrial freedom, criticizing the 'industrial feudalism' that concentrates authority in owners and denies workers control over their working lives.
Advocates for transferring control to bodies representing workers and consumers, and for enlisting professional pride as a substitute for capitalist discipline.
Advocates for a system where authority is allocated by function, not by property, and where brain workers have professional autonomy and are judged by colleagues rather than owners.
Evidence in the book
- The Condition of Efficiency
Advocates for transferring control to bodies representing workers and consumers, and for enlisting professional pride as a substitute for capitalist discipline.
- The Position of the Brain Worker
Advocates for a system where authority is allocated by function, not by property, and where brain workers have professional autonomy and are judged by colleagues rather than owners.